The George Christchurch

There’s more to New Zealand than just those rustic rural lodges. Though it may confound the narrative a bit, New Zealanders can do cosmopolitan style as well. The George, a 53-room boutique in central Christchurch, would look at home in any European capital, so chic is the pared-down modernist décor — in fact the endless whites and blond wood recall nothing so much as Scandinavia at its coolest.

Of course urban, in Christchurch, is relative — they won’t be shooting Blade Runner 2 here, that’s for sure. The George stands at the edge of Hagley Park, which many of the rooms overlook; not only do you get 42” Smart TVs, complimentary WiFi, and 24-hour room service, but idyllic views as well.

The George comes with not one but two restaurants among Christchurch’s finest — relaxed dining at 50 Bistro and the more formal Pescatore (no points for guessing what’s on the menu at the latter). Guests enjoy complimentary access to Total Fitness, a five-minute walk away, or use of the hotel's mountain bikes for a spin around the park. If you’re still feeling confined (unlikely in this scenic, modestly sized city) you’re never far from the vast expanses of great outdoors that are a New Zealand trademark.

How to get there: The George is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Christchurch International Airport.